Dealing with a Pooch Overfed: What to Do When Your Dog

What to Do When Your Dog Eats Too Much:

1. After your furry friend has finished eating, it's important for owners to engage them in some light exercise, such as a leisurely walk. Moderate physical activity can aid in digestion. However, it's crucial to avoid overly strenuous exercises, as they can put unnecessary strain on your dog's digestive system, potentially leading to issues like gastric torsion.

2. If your dog has overeaten, it's best not to offer them any more food or water. This is because if the dog's kibble is too dry and they drink water immediately afterward, it can cause the stomach to bloat, which might lead to a gastric perforation.

3. When your dog is experiencing indigestion, you can administer some digestive aids, such as probiotics, which are beneficial for digestion and can help settle their stomach.

4. Some dogs may vomit when they've eaten too much, which is actually a physiological response to protect their intestines. Typically, after about three hours without food or water, your dog should naturally expel any excess food from their stomach, which usually won't cause significant harm. During this time, it's essential for owners to remember to avoid overfeeding in the future. Prolonged overeating can lead to gastrointestinal diseases.

5. Teach your dog to refuse food from strangers. Some dogs may eat after their regular meal and then take food from unfamiliar sources, which can lead to overeating. Therefore, training your dog to decline food from strangers is not only helpful in preventing overeating but also in avoiding potential food poisoning from consuming unknown substances.

If the above tips do not alleviate your dog's overeating, or if they continue to vomit, with blood or foam in the vomit, and show severe signs of depression, it's imperative that you take your pet to the vet for a thorough examination. A balanced diet is key for your dog's health, avoiding both overeating and undereating. For more information on your dog's diet, check out our article on How Dogs of Different Ages Should Eat.